Parents Map Daughter's Road To Success

CELEBRATIONS - NEW KIDS

Experiencing the feeling of being parents is like a second honeymoon for Patricia and Thomas Smith, of Pembroke Pines.

They are extra thankful for their first child, Lindsey Nicole, who was born on Nov. 13 at Memorial Hospital West in Pembroke Pines.

The Smiths, who have been married for two years, say they dealt with three "unsuccessful pregnancies" before the birth of Lindsey.

"She is truly a blessing and a gift from God," Patricia Smith says. "I feel wonderful; that's the best thing that ever happened to me. Being a mother is wonderful. She's completed our family, but we've only just begun. We plan to have three or four [children)."

Lindsey's parents hope she will pick up the good qualities they have.

"Her daddy is the best person in the world," Patricia Smith says. "He has no enemy; he respects everybody. He is friendly, outgoing and funny."

"She's a very nice woman," Thomas Smith says of his wife. "She's kind-hearted and fills all of the lives around her with kindness."

Lindsey's father cannot wait to start teaching her his appreciation for football.

"I just want her to be as big of a Dallas fan as I am, as well as a Miami Dolphins fan. I want to take her fishing, boating, to football games, and for her to enjoy them."

Patricia Smith would like Lindsey to be the best at whatever she chooses. The baby's father would like her to earn a college degree in business administration so she can run a real estate company that he plans to open.

"Lindsey is the most gratifying and exhilarating event in my life," Thomas Smith says. "Being a father makes me feel wonderful. I'm thankful for God."

Lindsey is the grandchild of Barbara and Jerry Smith, of New Jersey; and Barbara and Al Domaratius, also of New Jersey.

Her great-grandparents are Katy and Richard Edmonson, of Las Vegas, Nevada; Jean Domaratius, of New Jersey; Janet Smith, of Ashley, Pa.; and John Tandberg, of Hollywood, Fla.